mechanisms'mekənɪzmnoun+the atomic process that occurs during a chemical reaction+the technical aspects of doing something+a natural object resembling a machine in structure or function+(philosophy) the philosophical theory that all phenomena can be explained in terms of physical or biological causes+device consisting of a piece of machinery; has moving parts that perform some function

His notions of mechanism reject the idea of free-thinking individualism.

Advanced English Dictionary

+noun1 a set of moving parts in a machine that performs a task: a delicate watch mechanism + The mechanism for locking the door of the washing machine is childproof.2 a method or a system for achieving sth: mechanisms for dealing with complaints from the general public + The college has established an effective student support mechanism.See also-ERM3 a system of parts in a living thing that together perform a particular function: the balance mechanism in the ears + Pain acts as a natural defence mechanism.

Collocation Dictionarynoun

1 part of a machine

ADJ.

firing, locking, steering, trigger, winding

MECHANISM + VERB

operate, work

The door locking mechanism doesn't work.

| jam

2 how sth works

ADJ.

effective, precise

an effective mechanism for enforcing the rules

| underlying | complex | social

VERB + MECHANISM

provide

The system provides a mechanism whereby information is channelled into the market.

MECHANISM + VERB

operate, work | allow sth, ensure sth

PREP.

by/through the ~ of

The government is held accountable through the mechanism of regular general elections.